What is ADA Compliance?

ADA compliance refers to conforming to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—a U.S. civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. In the context of websites, apps, and digital services, ADA compliance means ensuring that people with disabilities can access and use digital content effectively, typically by following recognized accessibility standards.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

• Enacted in 1990, the ADA ensures equal access to employment, transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunications for individuals with disabilities.

• Title III of the ADA applies to businesses and nonprofit service providers that are considered “places of public accommodation”—this includes websites and mobile apps if they serve the public.

What Does ADA Compliance Mean for Digital Content?

While the ADA itself does not explicitly define technical web standards, U.S. courts and federal agencies (like the DOJ) recognize WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)—usually WCAG 2.1 Level AA—as the de facto standard for digital accessibility.

To be ADA compliant, digital content must be:

• Perceivable: Information and user interface components must be presented in ways users can perceive (e.g., alt text for images, transcripts for videos).

• Operable: Users must be able to navigate the site using a keyboard, screen reader, or assistive technology.

• Understandable: Text and instructions must be clear and easy to follow.

• Robust: The content must be compatible with current and future assistive technologies.

Who Must Comply with ADA?

• Title I: Employers with 15+ employees must ensure accessible hiring and employment systems.

• Title III: Any business open to the public in the U.S. (e.g., e-commerce stores, restaurants, schools, banks) must ensure their websites and mobile apps are accessible.

Even if you’re not physically located in the U.S., if you offer services to U.S. customers, you may be subject to ADA compliance.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Lawsuits: Thousands of ADA web accessibility lawsuits are filed each year, particularly against retailers, hospitality brands, and service providers.

• Settlements or fines: Businesses often settle or are required to retrofit their websites, implement accessibility policies, and pay damages or attorney fees.

• Reputational harm: Non-compliance signals exclusion and poor digital ethics.

Common Steps Toward ADA Compliance

1. Audit your website or app using tools like:

   • Axe, WAVE, Lighthouse

2. Fix issues like:

   • Missing alt text, improper heading structure, keyboard traps, color contrast failures

3. Implement accessibility statements

4. Train your team and ensure ongoing monitoring

ADA vs. Other Laws